Eastern Cape police alarmed at spike in rape incidents over public holidays

Dec 31, 2018

Eastern Cape police on Monday said that they are alarmed at the spike of rape incidents in small areas in short space of time especially on special public holidays.

"Mthatha Cluster registered at least eight cases of rape on Christmas Day and since eight suspects have been arrested and made their first appearance in various courts within that cluster," said police spokesperson, Captain Khaya Tonjeni.

"Makhosandile Mjikeliso had barely unpacked his bakkie after arriving from a long journey from Johannesburg where he works.

"In a short space of time, an 89-year-old female senior citizen was raped in her neighborhood. Fortunately the octogenarian was able to remember, who raped her.

"The suspect left some clothing items on the crime scene that were later positively identified by his wife as property of her spouse. Mjikeliso shot himself before police could arrest him."

Capt Tonjeni said that Thobela Mahamba, 29, was arrested for raping a 27-year-old woman and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate's Court on 27 December.

"Alungile Gqokoma, 21, was arrested for raping a 14-year-old girl and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate's Court on 27 December 2018.

"Sizwe Bangani, 68, was arrested for raping a 45-year-old woman and he appeared in Libode Magistrate's Court on 27 December 2018," he described.

"Monwabisi Gwayi, 60, was arrested for raping a 45-year-old woman and he appeared in Libode Magistrate's Court on 27 December 2018.

"Sibulele Mazinyo, 26, was arrested for raping a 20-year-old girl and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate's Court on 27 December 2018.

"Vuyisa Mgambu, 27, was arrested for raping a 23-year-old woman and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate's Court on 27 December 2018."

Warning after rape incidents over public holidays

Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga, issued a warning to all those enjoying the holidays to be wary as criminals and rapists are also lying low waiting to prey on unsuspecting victims.

“Most of the rape cases happen near tavern and victims are usually inebriated. We call up on all police on duty to stamp their authority in closing illegal liquor outlets and enforcing compliance to stipulated times of business for those legal operators.

"Those who are enjoying the end of the year and celebrating new year, celebrate with caution and be your ‘brother or sisters keeper’ to each other,” she suggested.

She also took the time to wish everyone a prosperous, crime free and safe new year.

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